Whether I’m hiking through the rain in the Peak District or out in the hot & humid rainforests of Costa Rica, I need gear that is as resilient as the wildlife I’m tracking.
My kit is built around the OM System for one simple reason: it gives me the reach, speed, and weather-sealing I need without the back-breaking weight of a heavier setup. This portability is what allows me to stay out in the field longer, react faster to the unpredictable moments of the natural world, and get as creative as possible with my photography.
Below is the exact setup I trust to get the job done when the conditions are far from perfect:
Camera Bodies:
OM System OM-1: This is my primary workhorse, I actually use 2 bodies in conjunction with 2 different lenses so that I can be ready for any eventuality.
Lenses:
M.Zuiko 150-400mm f/4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO: Often called the "Big White," this lens never leaves my side. I was extremely happy using the M.Zuiko 300mm f/4 IS PRO for years, and I was putting off buying this lens (it’s not exactly cheap!), but it is without a doubt well worth the money. Going from 300mm (full frame equivalent) to a staggering 1000mm reach allows me an incredible amount of creative compositional options, while remaining light enough to handhold all day.
M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO: My go-to for "wildlife in the landscape" or larger mammals where I want to show more of the environment.
M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-40mm f/2.8 Pro: Another lens perfect for “wildlife in the landscape”, but I often use it for wildlife that’s happy getting close to you, like: red squirrels & puffins.
Support & Field Gear:
Optisan EVR II ED 8X34 Binoculars: I rarely leave the house without my binoculars. Incredibly lightweight, super sharp & good value, they’re the perfect pair for me!
Ulanzi Falcam TreeRoot Travel Tripod: I don’t often use a tripod for my photography, but sometimes needs must! This tripod is the perfect mix of lightweight, small & sturdy. Perfect for either neatly storing in the car, or taking with me on a long hike.
The SpeediGimbal Kit: If I’m staying in one place and want to keep my camera close to my eye, but don’t want to be tied to attaching it to anything - then the SpeediGimbal is my go to bit of kit. I mount one end to a monopod, and the other to my lens and it provides just enough stability without being fully attached.